I'm not an ethnocentric politician - Hawa

Madam Hawa Yakubu, former Tourism Minister and MP for Bawku Central, on Wednesday said she had never been swayed by ethnic sentiments in her political career.

"If I were one I would not have followed Mr William Ofori Atta (Paa Willie) United National Convention (UNC) when entering politics. Whatever I have said or criticism made was done in the true spirit of democracy and national cohesion."

Madam Yakubu told the Ghana News Agency that, "criticism is part of the democratic culture and since I do not believe in using force to right a wrong, I believe that letting people to follow the rules set up in the political game when they are not is the best thing that can happen to us."

She said: "I still hold on to the ideals of the NPP and just want to say that I just began my real political career."

The Former Minister also a Member of the ECOWAS parliament said she had always criticised the process and procedure of considering matters in Parliament and the NPP because "we have to stick to the approved way of considering matters".

She said the ECOWAS Parliament was more fulfilling since that gave her the opportunity to do more research and be abreast with current sub-regional and global issues.

Madam Yakubu and seven others whose, nomination attracted displeasure from some members, are to serve a five-year term at the sub-regional Parliament. "Money can never be a motivation for me to become a member of the ECOWAS Parliament. I had already committed myself just for the good of the sub-region. Apart from that, my dignity was on the line so I had to salvage it."

She said: "I have learnt the ropes. At least, I have seen a lot in life and in politics." She commended other seven Ghanaian MPs for their nationalistic views and the will to co-operate with other members for the good of the sub-region.

Madam Yakubu said the sub-regional Parliament had commenced on the right note and could serve as the forum for the eventual integration of the Sub-region.